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Dhak

The Dhak is a huge membranophone and a very old percussion instrument.  A large hollow wooden barrel is covered on both ends with hide. The spherical ends are about 18 inches  in diameter, the left of which is covered with a thicker hide than the right. The thicker end is played with a pair of bamboo sticks. On certain occasions, it is played with just the hands. The big instrument is slung over the shoulder, suspended from the neck, placed on the ground or lap when it is played. It has a special significance for Bengalis as it symbolizes Durga Puja which would be incomplete without the heady, frenzied beats of the Dhak. The instrument is often embellished with white or multi-colored feathers or with the more traditional white flowers of the Kash grass – ‘Kashphool’, especially on festive occasions.